Political Studies (MA)

Master of Arts in Political Studies

Expected duration: 1-2 years

Tuition and fees: Program fees are assessed in the first two terms of study, followed by a continuing fee in the third and any subsequent terms. (refer to Graduate tuition and fees)

Thesis stream:

In addition to the minimum course requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, found in the Graduate Studies Regulations Section, students must:

• Complete 15 credit hours of coursework in political studies at the 7000-level including POLS 7100 (The Study of Politics) and POLS 7300 (Research Methods in the Study of Politics)
• Complete and successfully defend a thesis

Major research paper stream:

In addition to the minimum course requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, found in the Graduate Studies Regulations Section, students must complete:

• 18 credit hours of coursework in political studies at the 7000-level including POLS 7100 (The Study of Politics), POLS 7110 (Major Research Paper) and POLS 7300 (Research Methods in the Study of Politics)
• A major research paper

Visit our faculty page for more information on the diversity of our research interests.

Pre-master's

Expected duration: 1 year

Tuition and fees: Varies (refer to the pre-master's section in Graduate tuition and fees)

The pre-master's program is designed to prepare students for subsequent entry into the master's program. Students in the pre-master's program must normally complete:

• 24 credit hours of coursework in political studies at the 4000-level

Under special circumstances, students may substitute six credit hours at the 4000-level in an ancillary subject or six credit hours at the 3000-level in political studies. Decisions on substitution rest with the Department of Political Studies Graduate Committee and must be obtained in writing.

Please note: Admission to the pre-master's program does not guarantee admission the the master's program.

The Master of Arts in Political Studies program accepts applications for Fall entry only. Applications must be completed online and include several parts:

• Application fee (non-refundable)
• Publication/writing sample
• Statement of intent
• Two letters of recommendation (must be requested from within the application)
• Proof of English language proficiency, if required

Please read the Faculty of Graduate Studies online application instructions before beginning your application.

Application deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis. The Admissions committee for Political Studies reviews applications in April.

Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.

Start or continue your application